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Bath confirm Houston Exit

Date published: May 26 2016

Bath have confirmed that back-row Leroy Houston will be returning to Australia and joining the Queensland Reds.

After three seasons and 89 appearances in the Blue, Black and White, Houston is heading back to Super Rugby. The 29-year-old is set to make his Test debut after being named in the Wallabies squad for their three-Test series against England in June.

Houston previously represented Australia A, was selected as an 18-year-old to tour Europe with the Wallabies in 2005, and won a Super 15 title with the Reds in 2011.

A mainstay in the Bath pack since his arrival, Houston’s powerful running, hard hitting and endless enthusiasm have seen him quickly become a crowd favourite at the Recreation Ground.

Commenting on the decision, Houston said: “This has been an incredibly difficult decision for me – I have loved every minute of playing for Bath.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at the Club for making my time here so enjoyable, and for their understanding in allowing me to leave to pursue my international ambitions.

“I’d also like to thank the fantastic supporters, who have given me so much support since I’ve been here – they’ve been amazing to me.

“Getting the opportunity to represent my country has always been an ambition of mine, and getting the chance to realise that is the only reason that I would even consider leaving Bath.

“I love this club, the people here and the beautiful city, and I will definitely miss it – I’ll be watching and cheering on from Australia!””

Toby Booth, First Team Coach at Bath, added: “Leroy has been fantastic in his time at Bath, and we’re really sad to see him go.

“His performances speak for themselves – he’s always given 100% every time he’s pulled on the Bath shirt. He’s been a hugely popular member of the squad, always smiling and willing to go the extra mile, and we’ll miss that. We’d all love to see him achieve his aim of playing for Australia.”